By Brigid Coon
Brigid Coon
November 5, 2025
Editor’s note
This story was produced in partnership with the Department of Journalism and Media Communication as part of a special class in which students get hands-on experiences developing and producing content with the Division of Marketing and Communications for SOURCE, the news website of CSU.
Those who attend Colorado State University are undoubtedly drawn to the university in part due to the appeal of Fort Collins and the number of activities within the town and surrounding areas. Students can easily access Horsetooth Reservoir to enjoy a scenic hike or find themselves exploring the seemingly endless number of fun shops in historic Old Town.
However, getting to Denver International Airport can be more of a challenge.
Project and Operations Manager for Colorado State University’s Department of Transportation, Stephanie Zakis, has provided invaluable insight for those struggling with this issue, answering some of the most common questions students have.
“The best thing you can do is just plan ahead,” she said.
Below you will find a breakdown of the available transportation options, as well as a few tips to make the commute a bit easier.
Denver International Airport lies southeast of Fort Collins, typically about an hour’s drive by car. It is the nearest major airport to Fort Collins and southern Wyoming.
There are a few common ways for students to get to the airport, including using a shuttle service, Uber, carpooling or driving a personal vehicle.
The most cost-effective way of getting to DIA is Landline or Groome Transportation. Both are shuttle services offering pickup at both CSU and the Northern Colorado Regional Airport (FNL).
Uber’s ride-scheduling feature can be convenient for students looking to avoid a shuttle. It can be faster and more comfortable; however, it is more expensive. Rides are also subject to cancellation. Overall, this is a less reliable option than the shuttles.
Parking itself is fairly simple. There is great signage and a large surface lot, or covered parking is offered in garages. During the holiday season, the lots can get quite busy and may pose more of a challenge for finding a parking spot.
Yes. There are many companies that offer parking near the airport. Most allow you to reserve a spot in advance as well. Most will shuttle you from their lot to the airport.
Bustang offers transportation from CSU to Denver’s Union Station. From Union Station, students can take the RTD A Line bus to the airport.
If you are a commuter student or live somewhere that does not offer parking during breaks, it is imperative that you park only in designated areas. At CSU, that is Lot 740. There is a permit system, so be sure to make the proper arrangements before parking.
Things get chaotic. Save yourself stress by booking your shuttle when you purchase your plane ticket. They offer round-trip booking options that simplify things.
Students can find information on CSU Transportation’s website or their Facebook and Instagram pages. They put out helpful information prior to all breaks.
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